Since when did childbirth become a crime for women in leadership? Since when did taking maternity leave become a justification for political attacks?
These are the hard questions raised by a section of legislators from the cross-party caucus, Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA), which brings together all female parliamentarians.
The MPs, who held a press conference on Tuesday amid growing concerns over the prolonged absence of Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, who is on maternity leave in the US, called for an end to what they described as gendered attacks on the county boss who is reportedly nursing twins.
“Over the past few weeks, we have witnessed an unfair, unnecessary, and deeply disappointing attack on Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika simply because she exercised her right to maternity leave. Let us be clear: Governor Kihika is not just a leader; she is also a woman, a mother, and a Kenyan who deserves the same rights and dignity as any other working professional”, the MPs stated.
Petition submitted
Nakuru residents have expressed growing frustration over their Governor’s whereabouts, who has not been seen in public since November 18, 2024.
Last week, they submitted a formal petition to the county assembly demanding accountability, arguing that the governor has been absent from key county affairs without any official explanation beyond her maternity leave, which they believe should have ended by now.
The petition, presented by Kimori Evans, includes seven demands, one of which is the full disclosure of Governor Kihika’s whereabouts.
The ongoing unease among residents, and even some local leaders, has fueled speculation, prompting KEWOPA to respond to what they consider unfair criticism and double standards.
Nominated Senator Tabitha Mutinda wondered if their male counterparts would face the same criticism if they had taken time off for health reasons.
“Let us also ask: Would a male governor be attacked for taking medical leave? Would we be standing here today if it was a male leader who had taken time off for health reasons? The double standards being applied to women leaders in this country must stop.” She said.
Additionally, they dismissed claims that her absence had created a leadership vacuum.
“Governor Kihika took a legally recognized and medically necessary leave to welcome a new life into the world, just like any other working woman. In her absence, the government of Nakuru County continued to function seamlessly under her able deputy, as is the norm in any well-structured administration”, she added.
The MPs vowed to defend the rights of all working women in this country and in particular their colleagues who face political bullying.
“This is not just about Susan Kihika. This is about every woman in Kenya who aspires to leadership. We cannot afford to send a message that women must choose between leadership and family—that to be in power, a woman must stop being a mother, a wife, or a daughter”, they emphasized.
They called for a fair political environment where leadership is judged by performance and integrity, not motherhood.
“Let us focus on what truly matters—service delivery, governance, and leadership, not a woman’s decision to have a family. To our women across Kenya, we say this: You can lead. You can be a mother. You can be both. And we will stand together to ensure that no woman is ever forced to choose between the two”, they assured.
The petition, supported by 2,000 signatories, demands that the governor appear before the assembly to clarify who is currently governing the county.
Kihika previously addressed concerns about her absence, saying she was on maternity leave, though some residents have questioned the claim.
EXPLAINER: Here are the demands in the petition.
- A Full Disclosure of Governor Kihika’s Whereabouts
The County Assembly should summon the Governor or her representatives to publicly disclose where she has been and why she has repeatedly missed crucial events without giving an excuse for maternity leave since the said period is over.
- A Clarification on Who is Running the County of Nakuru.
If the Governor is unable to perform her duties, official communication should be made regarding who is in charge of day-to-day county operations.
- Assurance of Effective Leadership
The Governor must engage with the public, attend key events, and provide clear leadership, especially during moments of crisis.
- Accountability for Brian Odhiambo and Baby Mercy’s Cases
The Governor must take a firm stand on these two troubling cases and demand investigations and justice for the affected families.
- Transparency on Foreign Travel
The County Assembly should provide details of all official foreign trips taken by the Governor, including their purpose and how they benefit Nakuru residents.
- Public Address or Town Hall Meeting
The Governor must address the people of Nakuru in a public forum or media interview to reassure residents about her commitment to leadership.
- Timeline for Response from the County Assembly
We demand that the County Assembly provide feedback within 14 days on the steps taken regarding this petition.
SOURCE: Kamche Menza
